Ukrainian multiple saber fencing world champion Olha Kharlan was set to compete later on July 29 in the team event at the world championships in Milan, after originally being disqualified for refusing a handshake with a Russian opponent in the individual event. The ruling body FIE said on the evening of July 28 that it had suspended the sanction after consultations with the athlete and the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which for its part guaranteed her a place at next year's Paris Games. Kharlan was disqualified on July 27 after refusing to shake hands with Russian Anna Smirnova.
Ukrainian Fencer Allowed To Compete Again At World Championships After Disqualification
Ukrainian saber fencer Olha Kharlan (file photo)